Strangulation Lawyer Fauquier County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A strangulation charge in Fauquier County is a serious Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Fauquier County General District Court. If you are facing a strangulation charge, contact a strangulation lawyer Fauquier County immediately for a case-specific defense strategy. Our team is available 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Strangulation Law & Penalties
Strangulation, defined as impeding blood circulation or breathing by applying pressure to the neck, is prosecuted as a felony in Virginia. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. This charge is distinct from simple assault and carries significantly harsher penalties, reflecting the severe risk of injury or death associated with the act.
In Fauquier County, a strangulation conviction is a Class 6 felony carrying 1 to 5 years in prison, though a jury or judge can reduce the penalty to up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (§ 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of firearm rights, protective orders, immigration consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fauquier County Court Process for Strangulation Charges
Strangulation cases in Fauquier County begin with an arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate. The case is then prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fauquier County General District Court for preliminary hearings. Felony trials are held in Fauquier County Circuit Court. Given the domestic context of many strangulation charges, securing an experienced domestic strangulation lawyer Fauquier County is critical to handle the interplay between criminal and protective order proceedings.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing. Contact a lawyer immediately.
- General District Court Hearing: A preliminary hearing is held to determine if there is probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case proceeds, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense attorney will file motions to challenge evidence and obtain all police reports and witness statements.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case will either go to a jury trial or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, a separate sentencing hearing will determine the final penalty.
Our Defense Approach for Strangulation Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, our team understands how to construct a strong defense. We examine the facts meticulously—challenging the evidence of intent, the proof of impairment, and the credibility of witnesses. In domestic cases, we work to address underlying issues that may lead to a more favorable resolution.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Our firm’s managing attorney, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law bring a high level of authority to your defense.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our commitment is to seek the best possible outcome in every case. While prior results cannot guarantee future success, our documented approach in Fauquier County focuses on vigorous defense. We explore all avenues, from challenging the sufficiency of evidence to negotiating for reduced charges or alternative dispositions where appropriate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Strangulation Defense Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Fauquier County and is accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We represent individuals in Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Fauquier County Strangulation Charge FAQs
Is strangulation always a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, strangulation resulting in wounding or bodily injury is a Class 6 felony. Even without visible injury, it is charged as a felony, though penalties can vary.
What is the difference between a strangulation charge and domestic assault?
Strangulation is a specific, severe felony charge (Va. Code § 18.2-51.6), while domestic assault is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor under § 18.2-57.2. A strangulation charge carries much heavier penalties and requires a strangulation charge defense lawyer Fauquier County with specific experience in defending this serious allegation.
Can a strangulation charge be dropped if the victim doesn’t want to press charges?
It depends. In Virginia, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes crimes on behalf of the state, not the individual victim. While a victim’s reluctance can influence the prosecutor’s decision, they can still proceed with the case using other evidence, such as police testimony and medical reports.
What should I do if I am arrested for strangulation in Fauquier County?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a domestic strangulation lawyer Fauquier County as soon as possible to begin building your defense, starting with the bond hearing at the magistrate’s office.
What are the long-term consequences of a strangulation conviction?
A felony conviction results in the permanent loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment and housing, potential immigration removal, and mandatory registration if deemed a domestic violence offense. It also impacts child custody and visitation cases.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing related charges, our firm also handles DUI defense and family law matters in Fauquier County. For broader Virginia defense, see our state criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.